Margaret'S Salad
A light, fruity salad featuring peaches, pears, and bananas, complemented by nuts and poppy seed, perfect for summer gatherings or a refreshing dessert.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Drain the can of sliced peaches and cut them into bite-sized pieces.
- Drain the can of pears.
- Combine the drained peaches, pears, nuts, and peach pie filling in a large bowl.
- When ready to serve, cut up 3 bananas into the salad.
- Sprinkle the salad with poppy seed before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For added texture, consider using candied walnuts or pecans instead of regular nuts. You can also substitute fresh fruit like diced apples or grapes for a twist. If you're looking for a lighter version, opt for a low-sugar peach pie filling or make your own to control the sweetness. This salad pairs beautifully with Peggy'S Easy Punch for a refreshing meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Margaret's Salad chilled as a delightful side dish for picnics or barbecues. It also makes a lovely dessert on its own. Consider pairing it with grilled chicken or fish for a balanced meal. This salad can also be a great complement to dishes like Fish Camp Slaw for a diverse spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The bananas may brown, so it's best to add them fresh just before serving. If the salad becomes too watery, you can strain it slightly before serving again to maintain its texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Margaret'S Salad contains roughly 614 calories, with 9g protein, 84g carbohydrates, and 31g fat. It is an excellent source of potassium (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and dietary fiber. It also contributes 3g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh peaches instead of canned?
Absolutely! Fresh peaches will give the salad a brighter flavor and a firmer texture. Just make sure to peel and slice them into bite-sized pieces before adding to the mix. This adjustment can enhance the overall freshness of the dish.
Is there a vegan option for the nuts?
Yes, if you're looking for a vegan alternative, you can use any variety of nuts or seeds that you prefer. Sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds can be a great substitute. Just ensure that any additional ingredients, like the peach pie filling, are vegan-friendly.
How can I make this salad more colorful?
To add more color, consider incorporating diced strawberries, blueberries, or even mandarin oranges. These fruits not only enhance the visual appeal but also bring additional flavors that complement the peaches and pears beautifully.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).